'Happy and kind' boy, 3, who died in Rochdale dog attack is pictured as family pay tribute

17 May 2022, 13:35 | Updated: 17 May 2022, 20:36

This is the first picture of three-year-old Daniel John Twigg who was killed in a dog attack in Rochdale.

Daniel was injured in the dog attack at a property in Milnrow, Rochdale, on Sunday afternoon.

He was taken to hospital by ambulance staff but tragically died a short time later.

Inquiries by Greater Manchester Police have established the youngster was with a number of dogs in an outdoor area surrounding his home before he was discovered with serious injuries.

A 48-year-old man has been arrested under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 after he handed himself in to custody, police said.

He continues to be questioned by officers.

Daniel's family paid tribute today, saying: "Daniel was a happy, kind and caring little boy who was loved by all who knew him.

"He loved Paw Patrol and playing with his brother and sister, he also loved being around animals - especially his pony, Splash.

"He brought us many laughs and was a comical character. He was brave, intelligent and full of many characteristics.

"Daniel loved being with his whole family and will be missed by all. On behalf of our family, we ask people to respect our privacy."

Several dogs have been seized from the property and one Cane Corso has been humanely destroyed, police said.

Enquiries in relation to the dogs are ongoing.

Detective Chief Inspector Gina Brennand, of GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “I send my condolences to Daniel’s loved ones. This is a heart-breaking time for them, specially trained colleagues are supporting them.

“Though a man is in custody, our investigation is very much ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and ensure any criminal offences in relation to Sunday’s incident are identified and prosecutions sought.

“Meanwhile, officers are also reviewing other incidents of note. Due to previous contact, GMP’s Professional Standards Branch has referred the incident for review by the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

“We understand that this incident has had an impact on the community but we ask members of the public and the media to refrain from speculating whilst we complete our investigation and any subsequent proceedings are concluded.”

Due to previous contact, GMP’s Professional Standards Branch is making a referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

Anyone with information has been urged to call police on 0161 856 5413 quoting incident 1615 of 15/05/2022.

Information can also be reported online or by using the LiveChat function at www.gmp.police.uk. If you can't report online, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.